Fikadab Legesse

My name is Fikadab. I live Jimma, Ethiopia, with my parents and I have three brothers and sisters. Our family had many challenges during my childhood because we did not have money and it was hard to pay for our educational expenses. Despite countless struggles growing up, from them I learned to work hard and fulfill my responsibilities with resolve and commitment even in the face of discouragement and insufficient resources.

I grew up in a Christian family, and my relationship with Jesus began as a child. We went to church and Sunday school, and this began my connection to my faith. Our area is predominantly Muslim and there was peer pressure to follow that religion. However, going to church, praying and studying my Bible kept me strong in my beliefs in Jesus. I am now a church leader too. I heard about Young Life from my sister and decided to participate with my close friends in high school. Young Life shaped my faith even more, showing me what it is to have a personal relationship with Jesus. I feel called to reach out to teens in my community to introduce them to the hope found in Jesus.

As a recipient of the Developing Global Leaders scholarship, I am studying engineering and computer science at Rift Valley University in Jimma, Ethiopia. I cannot afford university without this scholarship. I want to successfully complete my education as well as remain faithful to my ministry with Young Life. Along with the training I receive in my degree, I want to use my natural gifts to help me advance in my field as a leader and contribute to my family, community and country.